Sunday, October 15, 2023

The Rich History and Evolution of Chanderi Handloom: From Vedic Origins to Modern Appreciation

Chanderi handloom development has a rich history that dates back to the Vedic period[3][6]. The fabric is a result of traditional methods of hand weaving that have been developed over the centuries and passed down through generations[1]. Chanderi fabric is one of the best-known handlooms in India, and it is believed that its center for weaving was established somewhere between the 7th and 8th centuries[2]. Throughout the Mughal reign in India, admiration of Chanderi fabric achieved great heights and was the most demanded choice among queens[3]. However, the evolution of the fabric started during the 1890s when the weavers residing in Chanderi replaced handspun yarn with mill-made yarn[3]. In 1910, Chanderi sarees were patronized by the Scindia family, and it was the period when golden thread made its existence on cotton muslin saree[3]. During the 1930s, weavers in Madhya Pradesh came across Japanese silk and began to replace the wrap within cotton sarees with Japanese silk, which helped Chanderi silk to come into existence[3].

Over the years, with the advancement of technologies, Chanderi print fabric has changed its patterns. Modern prints of Chanderi have geometric patterns along with floral and other such designs adopted from the ancient period[3]. Despite being the most beautifully woven fabric, there came a time when people forgot about the Chanderi[3]. However, due to the sheerness of the fabric, it has gained renewed attention and appreciation both nationally and internationally[3][5]. Handlooms and handicrafts are also a significant source of livelihood for millions of people in India, and by promoting and buying handloom and handicraft products, we can support these artisans and help them earn a sustainable income[4].

Citations:
[1] CHANDERI WEAVING- AN EXCLUSIVE ART OF INDIA - Textile Value Chain https://textilevaluechain.in/in-depth-analysis/articles/traditional-textiles/chanderi-weaving-an-exclusive-art-of-india/
[2] Chanderi Fabric - History and Evolution of This Royal Weaves - Craft Maestros https://www.craftmaestros.com/blog/chanderi-fabric-history-and-evolution-of-this-royal-weaves
[3] The Tales of Chanderi Fabric - History , Characteristics , Uses - Fabriclore https://fabriclore.com/blogs/fabric-wiki/information-about-chanderi-fabric
[4] The history and significance of handloom and handicrafts in our culture and traditions https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/history-significance-handloom-handicrafts-our-culture-traditions
[5] The Ancient History of Chanderi Saree | INIFD Ahmedabad https://inifdahmedabad.com/blog/the-ancient-history-of-chanderi-saree/
[6] Weaving of Chanderi Handloom Sarees from Madhya Pradesh - LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/weaving-chanderi-handloom-sarees-from-madhya-pradesh-shatika-online

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